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"When the consultant said they were going to be treating me for a tumour it hit me how serious the situation had become," Louise told the T&A in a previous interview.

Treatment to shrink the tumour was successful and Louise attends regular check-ups and scans.

But now she has something else to focus on - her fundraising marathon to support a cause close to her heart.

While working as a secretary at BRI at the time, Louise was introduced to the independent charity, Cancer Support Yorkshire.

The charity, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, provides practical help and support to those affected by cancer and their families.

Louise, who now works for St Luke's Hospital in Bradford, was keen to help the charity and is currently preparing to take part in the largest half marathon in the world - the prestigious Great North Run.

After successfully entering the ballot and securing one of the 57,000 places in this year's Simplyhealth Great North Run, Louise is now looking forward to taking part.

Starting in Newcastle Upon Tyne, the 13.1 mile route passes the iconic Tyne Bridge and progresses along the coastline in South Shields.

Since its inception in 1981, more than one million people have crossed the finishing line in South Shields - now Louise is looking forward to joining them.

"It is the world's most popular half marathon and it's an experience as well, to go up there and be part of doing something big," says Louise.

She explains how she began running as a 'pre-wedding workout,' but at 5ft 2 she adds "My legs aren't built for running!"

Nevertheless, it is a form of exercise she has come to enjoy.

"I entered the Leeds half marathon as extra motivation," says Louise, referring to her participation in last year's event.

"I thought I would have to get serious about it and continue with running because it feels good. It spurs you on to do more."

Despite suffering from asthma, Louise explains how she goes at her own pace. "You just pace yourself," she explains.

Louise has now set up a Justgiving page. Her initial target is £500 but she hopes to raise as much as possible for the charity which is celebrating its 30th anniversary through various Eighties themed fundraising events.

Cancer Support Yorkshire, which is based in Bradford and Skipton where it also opened its first charity shop, is also hoping others will hold Eighties-themed fundraisers to support its cause and help it to continue its vital work helping those affected by cancer and their families.

"Because of the service they give, not just to the patient but to the family as well and also it does affect all the family and it is important that everybody gets the support they need. Cancer Support Yorkshire is the ideal charity," says Louise.

Linda Enderby, community engagement officer with Cancer Support Yorkshire, says: "Cancer Support Yorkshire exists to help patients and their families with the non-medical issues that come with a diagnosis.

"It’s always appreciated when someone we have helped feels able to support us and we’re all encouraging Louise to get through her training and have a fantastic experience on race day."

To support Louise visit justgiving.com/fundraising/louisefoxall1980.

For more information about Cancer Support Yorkshire, or get involved with an Eighties-themed fundraising event, visit csyorkshire.org.uk or call the fundraising team on 01274 776688.

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